The research for this article was based on an eight week study. More research and a larger test group are needed to determine maximum effective dosages. Prelimary conclusions are that the leaf extracts had positive effects on glucose and lipid levels and are safe for use in humans.

This study is important because in 2010, the World Health Organization reported that 347 million people worldwide had diabetes. This number is expected to increase to 439 million adults by 2030.

Top - Ficus deltoidea, commonly known as mistletoe fig, a large shrub or small tree species native to Southeast Asia, and widely naturalized in other parts of the world. Photo source: Wikipedia Commons

Bottom - Elaeis guineensis is a species of palm commonly called African oil palm or macaw-fat. It is the principal source of palm oil. It is native to west and southwest Africa, occurring between Angola and Gambia. Photo Source: Wikipedia Commons.